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Crackdown on dog-fouling

PEOPLE are being urged to add their support to a crackdown on irresponsible dog owners who do not pick up after their pet.

Following consultation with residents, the Safer Ryedale Partnership is working to tackle dog fouling - one of the main complaints highlighted by the local community in a recent survey.

Patrols will be stepped up in hotspot areas and £50 fines will be issued to irresponsible dog owners.

The campaign aims to not only enforce the law, but to also change behaviour and encourage dog owners to “bag and bin” their dog’s waste in any litter bin in the area.

And responsible owners will be rewarded with a “Caught Doing Right” card that can be used to enter a free prize draw.

Inspector Andy Everitt said: “Tackling anti-social behaviour in Ryedale is not just about groups of youths gathering in public places, people littering, causing damage, drink-related rowdiness in our town centres or the anti-social use of motor vehicles.

“Dog fouling is also an anti-social act that has an impact on the quality of people’s lives.

“Many dog owners are extremely diligent in picking up their dog mess and the clear community message is that it is time for all dog owners to step up to the mark."

Local health and environment manager Steve Richmond added: “Irresponsible dog owners that don’t pick up after their dogs will be fined or prosecuted. The public are fed up of such anti social behaviour.”